ALD1 Fans Launch Campaign to Reinstate Hiatus Member Kim Geonwoo
The eight-member group, which debuted in January 2026 under WakeOne Entertainment, is currently promoting as seven after the agency paused Geonwoo’s activities. The controversy stems from a clip in which the young member muttered frustration during a pre-debut live broadcast, unaware the microphone was still on. Although WakeOne has denied long-circulating rumors of attitude problems and bullying, the company required Geonwoo to issue a handwritten apology expressing deep regret and a promise to return more mature.
Many ALD1 fans, however, argue the agency failed to protect the member from months of severe online harassment, including death threats and false accusations. Supporters have flooded social media with daily “waiting” posts, nostalgic edits of Geonwoo, and calls for the company to safeguard him. The hashtag #WakeoneProtectGeonwoo has trended strongly as fans insist the group should remain an eight-member act.
WakeOne Entertainment has not issued further statements beyond confirming the hiatus and the apology. The situation has sparked broader discussions about how rookie agencies handle early controversies and member protection in the highly competitive K-pop industry.
ALD1 continues scheduled promotions without Geonwoo, while fans remain vocal in their support. Many express hope that the agency will reconsider the hiatus and allow the member to rejoin the group soon.
This developing story reflects the intense scrutiny and emotional investment fans place on rookie groups, especially when personal incidents quickly escalate online.
Source: X (formerly known as Twitter)
